Surrounded by family and love Gerald passed away peacefully at Meaford Long Term Care on Tuesday, April 16th in his 88th year.

Gerald was born to the late William and Greta (nee Brown) Shortt on March 16, 1937. Son-in-law of the late Harold and Marion (nee Hare) McKnight.

Cherished husband of Shirley for over 61 years. Admired father of four daughters Colleen Raco (Dave), Carolyn Brown (Steve), Sandra Hill (Scott), and Valerie Wade (Paul).

He was the loving grandpa of Joe Raco (Amanda), Hayley Kuhl (Lane), Kelsey Fedy (Nevin), Karly Brown (Ryan), Tierney and Payton Hill, Thomas Wade (Corissa), Gareth Wade (Sarah) and a great-grandfather to Rhett Kuhl, and Ameila Newbold. He was predeceased by granddaughter Taryn Hill in 2013.

Gerry will be missed by his sister, Joan Vanderschans (Hank). He was predeceased by his brother, Ronald Shortt. He is fondly remembered by his sisters-in-law, Eleanor (late Ron Shortt), Doris Coulter (late Bob), Brenda McMillan (Don) and brother-in-law, John McKnight.

He was a wonderful uncle to many nieces and nephews and their families.

Gerald shared great memories of growing up attending Bethesda Public School and Meaford High School, and working on the family farm in St. Vincent Township. He worked at Amerock, Stanley Knights, as well as picking apples.

Gerald began farming at an early age having saved his money faithfully to secure a farm and he never looked back or regretted that decision. Gerald and Shirley started their married life together on their 11th Line farm. They shared their work ethic and love of the land with their daughters. They started off by milking cows, selling cream, raising pigs and chickens and later transitioning to beef. He was a dedicated farmer who took pleasure in caring for the animals and had a deep respect for the land. They retired to their home in Meaford in 2004.

Gerald first entered politics as Councillor of St. Vincent Township, from 1973 – 1982. He then held the position of Reeve for 18 years from 1983 – 2000, also serving as Grey County Warden in 1990. He was the first Mayor of the Municipality of Meaford from 2001 – 2003 and served as Councillor of the Municipality of Meaford from 2008 – 2010. He was the Chairperson of Grey Sauble Conservation Authority in 2000. Gerry also served as Director on the Rural Ontario Municipal Board for 8 years and was Chairman in 1995.

He drew great comfort from his faith and was an Elder, Sunday School Superintendent and an active member of Knox Presbyterian Church.

As well as serving his community through politics, he also contributed through volunteering with the Agricultural Society and coaching his daughters’ ball teams. He and Shirley could often be found out and about in the community visiting and attending events, playing cards, curling and bowling. He especially loved music and dancing with his Sweetheart Shirley.

Gerry’s family extend their thanks to the staff and residents of Meaford Long Term Care Centre who have shown such care and compassion, some affectionately referring to him as “The Mayor”, while he resided there.

Family will receive friends for visitation at the Ferguson Funeral Home in Meaford on Sunday, April 21 from 1 until 4 p.m. A funeral service will be conducted at the Knox Presbyterian Church on Monday, April 22, 2024 at 11 o’clock.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Knox Presbyterian Church Meaford, Meaford Hospital Foundation or the charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family as expressions of sympathy and may be made through the Ferguson Funeral Home, 48 Boucher St. E., Meaford, ON N4L 1B9 to whom arrangements have been entrusted.